Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

A fundamental frame of reference for responsible and sustainable tourism, the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism (GCET) is a comprehensive set of principles designed to guide key-players in tourism development. Addressed to governments, the travel industry, communities and tourists alike, it aims to help maximise the sector’s benefits while minimising its potentially negative impact on the environment, cultural heritage and societies across the globe.

Adopted in 1999 by the General Assembly of the World Tourism Organization, its acknowledgement by the United Nations two years later expressly encouraged UNWTO to promote the effective follow-up of its provisions. Although not legally binding, the Code features a voluntary implementation mechanism through its recognition of the role of the World Committee on Tourism Ethics (WCTE), to which stakeholders may refer matters concerning the application and interpretation of the document.

The Code’s 10 principles amply cover the economic, social, cultural and environmental components of travel and tourism:Article 1: Tourism's contribution to mutual understanding and respect between peoples and societiesArticle 2: Tourism as a vehicle for individual and collective fulfilmentArticle 3: Tourism, a factor of sustainable developmentArticle 4: Tourism, a user of the cultural heritage of mankind and contributor to its enhancementArticle 5: Tourism, a beneficial activity for host countries and communitiesArticle 6: Obligations of stakeholders in tourism developmentArticle 7: Right to tourismArticle 8: Liberty of tourist movementsArticle 9: Rights of the workers and entrepreneurs in the tourism industryArticle 10: Implementation of the principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

“UNWTO is guided by the belief that tourism can make a meaningful contribution to people’s lives and our planet. This conviction is at the very heart of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, a roadmap for tourism development. I call on all to read, circulate and adopt the Code for the benefit of tourists, tour operators, host communities and their environments worldwide.”